After we reported extensive damage to the outdoor Martian display in front of Mission: SPACE a few days ago, a row of planters blocked the area. This indicates that some sort of configuration is in progress.
Save the Red Planet in Mission: SPACE
Mission: SPACE is a centrifugal motion simulator in the World Discovery section of EPCOT, which simulates the thrill of space travel through high G-forces that make guests feel like they are being launched to Mars. It replaced the beloved Horizons attraction twenty years ago.
Originally, only one maximum intensity voyage to Mars was available, until too many guests reported motion sickness issues due to the centrifuge. As a result, there was a less intense version of the Mars mission from 2006 until it was replaced by a tamer, gentler orbit around Earth in 2017.
Various parts of the shiny crimson orb show heavy wear, and the maroon glow characteristic of the display gives way to the bare gray and warped material beneath. Dirt has also accumulated in the grooves of the sculpture.
True, in Florida, all the buildings and set pieces at Walt Disney World are occasionally subject to severe weather, lightning, high winds, and catastrophic storms. Hurricane Ian devastated areas of southwest Florida and caused record flooding in the Orlando area. Regardless, maintenance for these structures is equally important, especially since this set piece doubles as the main entrance for the mild Green Team and more intense Orange Team riding experience. It is the focal point of attraction that every visitor sees.
Seen from the rear, most of the Planetary Plaza area, with its various models of planets, moons, and quotes from astronomers and astronauts is divided from the public with tarp fencing.
The area is no longer accessible, and although no activity has been seen yet, it looks like our planetary neighbor is about to receive some much needed attention from Earth.
Have you ever experienced this attraction? Which intensity do you prefer? Are you nostalgic for Horizons? Let us know in the comments.
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